### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **râhâh**, represented by `{{H7297}}`, is a primitive root defined as **to fear; be afraid**. Despite its direct meaning, it is used sparingly, appearing only **2 times** across **1 unique verses** in the Bible, making its single context highly significant.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole occurrence of `{{H7297}}` is in [[Isaiah 44:8]], where the word is repeated for emphasis in the command, "Fear ye not, neither **be afraid**." In this passage, God speaks directly to His people, assuring them of His unique status as the only God. The term is used in parallel with another word for fear, `{{H6342}}`, to strongly command against anxiety. The context establishes that the reason not to **be afraid** is the absolute sovereignty of God, who declares, "there is no God; I know not any" [[Isaiah 44:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help illuminate the concept of fear and its divine counterpoint:
* `{{H6342}}` **pâchad** (to be startled... to fear in general): This word is a direct synonym for fear and is used alongside `{{H7297}}` in its only appearance, reinforcing the command against being afraid [[Isaiah 44:8]]. It is also used in passages where believers are encouraged not to fear because the Lord is their salvation ([[Psalm 27:1]], [[Isaiah 12:2]]).
* `{{H3689}}` **keçel** (trust; confidence... hope): This term represents the opposite of fear. It is presented as the proper response to God's faithfulness. The Lord Himself is described as this "confidence" [[Proverbs 3:26]], and the righteous are instructed to set their "hope" in God [[Psalms 78:7]], providing a direct antidote to being afraid.
* `{{H3389}}` **Yᵉrûwshâlaim** (Jerusalem): As the capital city, Jerusalem is often the recipient of God's commands to not fear. In times of crisis, the inhabitants of Jerusalem are specifically told, "fear not, nor be dismayed" because God is with them and will grant salvation [[2 Chronicles 20:17]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{H7297}}` is concentrated in its singular, powerful usage.
* **Divine Reassurance:** The primary function of the word is to convey a direct command from God to His people to cease being afraid. This is not a suggestion but a directive rooted in God's own testimony about Himself [[Isaiah 44:8]].
* **The Foundation for Fearlessness:** The reason given for not being afraid is theological: the absolute uniqueness and sovereignty of God. The command is immediately followed by the rhetorical question, "Is there a God beside me?" [[Isaiah 44:8]]. The answer, a firm "no," is the basis for peace.
* **An Expression of Trust:** By instructing His people not to be afraid, God calls them to an active state of trust. This trust is contrasted with the "folly" `{{H3689}}` and misplaced "hope" `{{H3689}}` in things other than God, such as gold [[Job 31:24]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H7297}}` **râhâh** is a rare but potent term for being afraid. Its entire scriptural profile is contained within the divine reassurance of [[Isaiah 44:8]]. Used emphatically through repetition, it forms part of a crucial command to abandon fear, a command grounded not in human strength but in the singular, unrivaled power and existence of God. It teaches that true fearlessness is a direct result of recognizing God as the sole deity and foundation for one's life.
TRV